ESSEX'S favourite telly host, Rylan Clark, has landed a presenting role for the next season of Strictly Come Dancing's spin-off show.

The former X Factor contestant, originally from Stanford-le-Hope, will join Zoe Ball for 'It Takes Two' on BBC2.

In a statement Rylan revealed his excitement and his plans to bring 'a lot of mischief' to the show.

It reads: "I can't begin to explain how excited I am to be joining the Strictly family. I've always been a massive fan of It Takes Two and to be working with the amazing Zoe Ball is a dream.

"I'm extremely honoured to be joining such a television institution and can't wait to bring a lot of mischief to the Strictly bubble. I'm looking forward to getting started and seeing you all soon."

Strictly will return this autumn on BBC Two.

Before Zoe, was hosted by Claudia Winkleman from 2004 to 2010, who has since gone onto co-host the main show with Tess Daly.

Zoe also appeared to be thrilled by the news.

She said: "I adore Rylan, he's an absolute wonder, I love his daftness and naughtiness and he's a brilliant live telly host. He'll fit right into our It Takes Two family. Can't wait for this new season to start, it's going be a hoot!"

Dan McGolpin, Controller of BBC Programming and Daytime, said: "We are really excited to welcome Rylan to the Strictly family. He's a fantastic broadcaster and I can't think of a better person to help bring our viewers all the latest Strictly news."

Fans were quick to take to social media to congratulate the star on his new presenting role, with several joking that they hoped to see him showcase a dance move or two.

One wrote: "Can they install a set of stairs into the #ItTakesTwo studio? I've missed your dances a lot."

Another added: "Can't wait! You and Zoe will be fabulous together. You're so good at interviewing together."

Since Big Brother came to an end in November, Rylan has gone onto land a stint presenting Radio 2's Saturday afternoon show.